Chakwera Under Fire Over Funeral Remarks as Civil Group Demands Apology

By Suleman Chitera

Former President Lazarus Chakwera is facing mounting criticism after controversial remarks made at a funeral in Lilongwe triggered a sharp response from civil society watchdogs, raising fresh concerns about leadership tone and national unity.

The backlash comes from the organization Citizens for Credible Elections, whose Executive Director Edward Kambanje has openly challenged Chakwera to apologize, accusing him of making statements that risk inflaming tensions rather than calming a grieving nation.

At the burial ceremony of the late Sub T/A Malembo, Chakwera struck a tone that has since drawn scrutiny. While claiming to stand for peace, he issued a warning that some observers interpret as veiled and potentially provocative—suggesting that his commitment to peace should not be mistaken for weakness.

But critics are not convinced.

In a strongly worded statement dated April 7, Kambanje described the remarks as “deeply disappointing,” warning that such rhetoric carries dangerous implications in a politically sensitive environment.

“These words have the potential to incite anger and spark divisions among citizens,” Kambanje cautioned, adding that leaders—especially those who have held the highest office—must exercise restraint and responsibility in public discourse.

The intervention by Citizens for Credible Elections signals growing unease within civil society over what is seen as a creeping normalization of confrontational political messaging, even in solemn spaces such as funerals.

Kambanje has since called for a reset in tone, urging political leaders across the divide to prioritize unity, dialogue, and nation-building over statements that may be interpreted as threats or political posturing.

“Malawi needs healing, not heightened tension,” he emphasized.

Efforts to get an immediate response from Chakwera’s camp have so far yielded little. His spokesperson, lawyer Gift Nankhuni, said he had not yet received the letter from the organization. However, he indicated that once the communication is formally received, they will assess whether a response is warranted.

The silence, for now, only adds to the tension.

This episode underscores a broader and increasingly urgent question: what kind of political leadership does Malawi need at a time when unity is fragile and public trust remains under strain?

For many observers, the answer is clear—measured words, not loaded warnings.